New Mexico governor Susana Martinez is headed to the scene of the Wallow fire just hours after it crossed state lines into New Mexico.
Ms. Martinez plans to visit southwestern New Mexico as area communities prepare for a large wildfire approaching from Arizona.
The New Mexico Republican will visit the community of Reserve in Catron County on Friday. She will receive a briefing about the more than 500-square mile Wallow fire that is burning across the border in eastern Arizona.
Ms. Martinez’s visit comes as Arizona governor Jan Brewer spoke with the White House Thursday. The Arizona Republican said President Obama assured her the federal government will increase its visibility in role to combat the growing blaze.
Ms. Martinez announced Thursday has deployed National Guard troops to help local emergency personnel prepare for the Wallow fire, which has grown to nearly 500,000 acres. About 145 soldiers and airmen will help crew with safety and security issues, communications and evacuations if they become necessary.
